Head injury is one type of trauma that often occurs and can be experienced by anyone, from children to adults. Although these injuries can vary in severity, it is important to remember that head injuries, whether mild or severe, should always be watched out for. Ignoring the symptoms of head injury can lead to serious complications, including permanent brain damage and even death. According to data from the World Health Organization (WHO) , head injuries account for around 30-50% of all cases of injury that result in death in the world. In Indonesia, cases of head injuries are also quite high, especially those caused by traffic accidents, being hit during activities, combat sports injuries and accidents at work. If not treated immediately, it will cause high death and disability rates.
Classification of Head Injuries
Head injuries can be categorized into three main levels of severity: mild, moderate, and severe. This classification is based on the level of consciousness (Glasgow Coma Scale – GCS), symptoms that appear after the trauma, the duration of loss of consciousness (if any), and the possible long-term impact on the brain.
- Mild Head Injury (GCS 15 – 14)
Mild head injuries, often referred to as concussions, are the most common form of head trauma. They usually occur as a result of a mild blow or a minor fall that causes a temporary disruption in brain function.
Symptoms: mild headache, dizziness, nausea, mild confusion, and sometimes brief loss of consciousness (less than 30 minutes).
- Moderate Head Injury (GCS 13 – 9)
A moderate head injury occurs when the trauma is more severe and causes more significant damage to the brain.
Symptoms: the patient may experience loss of consciousness for several minutes to an hour, accompanied by vomiting, amnesia, or confusion that is more severe than a mild head injury.
- Severe Head Injury (GCS <8)
A severe head injury is a very serious and life-threatening condition. It usually occurs due to very strong trauma, such as a traffic accident or a fall from a height.
Symptoms: Symptoms of severe head injury often involve prolonged loss of consciousness (more than an hour), seizures, asymmetrical pupils, bleeding or fluid from the ears or nose, and even paralysis.
Head Injury Treatment
Treatment for head injuries depends largely on the severity of the trauma experienced. Each type of injury, whether mild, moderate, or severe, requires a different approach to minimize the risk of long-term complications.
- Treatment for Minor Head Injuries
Mild head injuries such as concussions can usually be treated at home with simple steps. Although they do not require serious medical intervention, it is important to remain alert to the development of symptoms, which require examination and observation in a hospital.
Treatment: Complete rest, pain relievers, symptom monitoring.
- Moderate Head Injury Treatment
Moderate head injuries require further medical attention to ensure there is no serious brain damage.
Treatment: Medical Diagnosis Process (CT Scan/MRI), Observation in Hospital, Supervision by Medical Personnel
- Severe Head Injury Treatment
A severe head injury is a medical emergency that requires immediate treatment to save lives and prevent permanent brain damage.
Treatment: Emergency Medical Intervention (Surgery), Intensive Monitoring (ICU), Long-Term Prognosis
It is important to recognize when a head injury requires immediate medical attention. Some warning signs to watch out for and require immediate intervention include:
- Loss of Consciousness
- Recurrent Vomiting
- Confusion or Disorientation
- Seizures
- Weakness or Numbness
- Asymmetrical Pupils
- Fluid Discharge from the Nose or Ear
Head Injury Prevention
Preventing a head injury is much better than having to deal with one after it has happened. Many head injuries can be avoided by following simple but effective safety measures.
- Proper Use of Helmets
One of the most effective ways to prevent head injuries is to wear a proper helmet, such as when cycling or riding a motorcycle, high-risk sports such as skateboarding, construction work or heavy industry.
- Home Security
Home is the most common place for accidents that cause head injuries, especially for children and the elderly. Things that can be done are installing safety on stairs, installing safety on sharp corners, limiting access to dangerous places for children/toddlers.
- Safety in the Workplace
Workplaces, especially high-risk ones such as construction, manufacturing, or laboratories, are areas prone to head injuries. Some important safety measures are: Use protective equipment, follow safety procedures, and educate employees.
- Safety While Exercising
Sports are also one of the most common causes of head injuries, especially contact sports/combat or sports that have a risk of falling. Things that can be done are wearing a helmet in contact sports, obeying the rules, proper physical exercise.
- Safety Education and Head Injury Prevention
One of the most important steps in preventing head injuries is through education. Spreading information about the importance of safety and how to prevent head injuries can save many people from the risk of trauma.
Conclusion
Head injuries, whether mild, moderate, or severe, are conditions that should not be underestimated because of the high mortality and disability rates in the world and in Indonesia. It must be remembered that disabilities resulting from head injuries cannot be restored to normal. Recognizing early symptoms and understanding how to handle them properly is very important to prevent further complications. Mild head injuries, such as concussions, may seem harmless, but if not treated properly, they can have serious consequences. Therefore, every blow to the head, no matter how small, must be monitored carefully.
Prevention is the first and best step in protecting yourself and others from head injuries. By following simple safety measures, such as wearing a helmet, securing your home, and following safety protocols at work and while playing sports, many head injuries can be avoided. Education about the importance of safety also plays a big role in creating awareness that can save lives.
Article written by dr. Bintang Cristo Fernando, Sp.BS (Neurosurgery Specialist, EMC Cibitung Hospital).